Light Painting Photography
By the end of this lesson, students will:
- Understand the technique of light painting and how it uses long exposure to create artistic effects.
- Learn camera settings for long exposure photography.
- Experiment with creating images using handheld light sources in dark conditions.
John 1:5 – “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
This connects beautifully to light painting because light painting only works when there is darkness around it. In the dark, even a small light becomes powerful, visible, and creative. With intentional movement, that light can create something beautiful where there once seemed to be nothing. In the same way, YAH’s light shines in a dark world and cannot be overcome. His light brings beauty, direction, and hope.
For this project, remember: darkness does not stop the light, it gives the light a place to shine.
Here is a student-friendly version:
“As you create light paintings, think about John 1:5. Light stands out in darkness. It moves, creates, and brings beauty where things seem empty or hidden. In the same way, YAH’s light shines in the darkness, and darkness can never overcome it. Let this remind you that even a small light has power when it is used with purpose.”
Course Content
What is Light Painting?
- Definition: A photographic technique where exposures are made by moving a light source or by moving the camera.
- Used in artistic, abstract, or creative photography.
Works best in low-light environments.
Camera Settings for Light Painting
Mode: Manual
Shutter Speed: 5–30 seconds (long exposure)
Aperture: f/8–f/16 for depth and sharpness
ISO: 100–400 to avoid noise
Focus: Manual focus on a fixed point
Use a tripod to keep the camera completely still
Hands-On Practice
Activity: “Draw with Light”
- Split students into small groups.
- One student operates the camera, the others move lights to create shapes, words, or abstract designs.
- Experiment with:
- Drawing shapes (hearts, stars, circles).
- Writing words in the air (mirror writing so it appears correct in photo).
- Creating light trails around people or objects.
Rotate roles so everyone gets to create and capture images.
Homework
- Assignment: Try light painting at home or outdoors at night.
- Submit your most creative light painting photo